Pope says Christmas should bring hope, help ease life's burdens

Published: 2003-12-17

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In a world that often seems overburdened by problems and conflicts, the celebration of Christmas should bring a sense of hope, Pope John Paul II said. The coming of Christ should also remind people that there is more to life than material well-being and economic progress, the pope said at his weekly general audience Dec. 17. The pontiff looked fit as he addressed some 6,000 pilgrims who packed the Vatican audience hall. However, he skipped over half of his prepared speech, and his words were hard to understand. In his talk, the pope spoke philosophically about the impact of Christmas on people's daily lives. Above all, it should bring encouragement to those who feel dispirited by life's many difficulties, he said.

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